Come From Away
The events of 9/11 remain one of the greatest tragedies in history and, at first, many may question how they can become the central premise for a musical. Come From Away highlights how these most tragic of times can bring out the best in humanity, as it follows the heart wrenching and heart-warming real-life stories of simple acts of human kindness and the hospitality of complete strangers.
The small town of Gander in Newfoundland, home to less than 10,000 residents, welcomed more than 6,500 total strangers when 38 planes were diverted there in the wake of the 9/11 attacks. Written and composed by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, the show combines the perspectives of numerous Gander locals and grounded passengers, bringing their stories from a small town in Newfoundland to an unmissable big stage musical.
The cast of twelve, who are onstage as various characters for most of the show, play both the locals and those from the grounded planes who have ‘come from away’. It would be impossible to select a standout performer, given that this show is centred around a community spirit and all the cast work as a slick collective.
Onstage costume additions, enable the seamless move between characters with a simple change of jacket or addition of a headpiece. Similarly, the set, designed by Beowulf Boritt is simplistic in design, and revolves around furniture and chairs cleverly placed and moved to transport us from the plane to various locations in the town of Gander.
The show brings several musical highlights including the invigorating opening number ‘Welcome to the Rock’ and ‘Screech In’, which provided an opportunity for the incredible band to take centre stage. The cleverly written dialogue, under Christopher Ashley’s direction, allows each cast member to narrate their own story, at times directly to the audience, providing an emotional connection and often bringing a lighter, comedic edge.
Those who were in the press night audience were also treated, at the end of the show, to a particularly special and poignant moment when the real-life counterparts, whose stories inspired Come From Away, joined the cast members, understudies and producers on the stage. Claude Elliott, former mayor of Gander, delivered a powerful speech, impressing the importance of kindness and once again highlighting how the show honours what was lost whilst commemorating what was found.
This show was reviewed on the 4th December 2024 at The Lowry, Salford where it concludes its tour on the 5th January 2025. Tickets available here: Come From Away | Lowry
Review written by Gabrielle & Rachael Groves
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Photo credit: Production images
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